About

The research and development aspect of consumer products giant Danone is contingent on the successful operation of the Danone Research Centre, which is located near Paris and focuses on fresh dairy products and waters. The Parisian Centre works in combination with The Nutricia Research Centre in the Netherlands, which handles research activities of baby and medical nutrition. The legal team at Danone Research Centre is highly recommended for its part in the smooth running of the research and development process, enabling Danone’s entities to fulfil all regulatory and legal requirements they encounter when developing new business lines. Of particular importance is the way the legal team is able to provide a stable platform from which new Danone products can be launched into the marketplace, and the team handle every aspect of R&D contracts including patents, clinical studies, technology transfers and other agreements to ensure risk mitigation at every stage. A department made up of lawyers of different seniorities in addition to honing new talent through employing trainees, this multi-faceted function is not only outstanding for its in-depth technical legal expertise, but for its tangible impact on Danone’s product lines and revenue figures. The team is also charged with dispensing advice to their senior management colleagues, and in doing so translate complex legal issues into real-world business advice. Being trusted to directly advise business partners on business, competition and intellectual property law in addition to monthly operational reviews is the ultimate expression of the team’s quality. Emmanuelle Avenier is the head of dairy, waters and Africa R&D legal department from her base in France, and reports directly to Danone’s R&D legal director.